
Grand Central Station to Union Square (Self Guided), New York
Despite being smaller than almost everything around it, including the humongous MetLife Building that dwarfs it from behind, the Grand Central Terminal is just so gorgeous and palatial-looking that it still manages to be the centerpiece of the whole East Side of Midtown Manhattan. Passing from here to Union Square, our self-guided tour is bound to introduce you to some of New York City’s most iconic landmarks!
Walking to the Empire State Building is a must, especially for the unique views of all the amazing sites NYC has to offer. The observation deck at the 102nd floor, which is a modern addition with unobstructed floor-to-ceiling windows, allows for only a small number of guests at a time, so it’s not overcrowded. You can walk all the way around and see the city from every angle!
Another quintessential NYC experience, Macy’s flagship location in Herald Square is a great place to shop if you’re looking to do that. And even if you’re not planning on buying anything, walking through at least part of it is a fun activity, just to say you've visited. On a few of the uppermost floors, they still have original escalator steps which are rather interesting.
Swing by the Madison Square Garden arena and the incredibly photogenic Flatiron Building before finally reaching Union Square – a nice place to be if you have no agenda and just want some place to hang out or people-watch. Despite the neighborhood having changed significantly over the years, it still attracts artists, performers, activists, students, chess players, locals and tourists, and is home to an amazing farmers market.
Make sure to bring your walking shoes, and select a nice day for wandering around. Our self-guided walk will do the rest, so why not give it a shot? ;)
Walking to the Empire State Building is a must, especially for the unique views of all the amazing sites NYC has to offer. The observation deck at the 102nd floor, which is a modern addition with unobstructed floor-to-ceiling windows, allows for only a small number of guests at a time, so it’s not overcrowded. You can walk all the way around and see the city from every angle!
Another quintessential NYC experience, Macy’s flagship location in Herald Square is a great place to shop if you’re looking to do that. And even if you’re not planning on buying anything, walking through at least part of it is a fun activity, just to say you've visited. On a few of the uppermost floors, they still have original escalator steps which are rather interesting.
Swing by the Madison Square Garden arena and the incredibly photogenic Flatiron Building before finally reaching Union Square – a nice place to be if you have no agenda and just want some place to hang out or people-watch. Despite the neighborhood having changed significantly over the years, it still attracts artists, performers, activists, students, chess players, locals and tourists, and is home to an amazing farmers market.
Make sure to bring your walking shoes, and select a nice day for wandering around. Our self-guided walk will do the rest, so why not give it a shot? ;)
How it works: Download the app "ϳԹ: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Grand Central Station to Union Square Map
Guide Name: Grand Central Station to Union Square
Guide Location: USA » New York (See other walking tours in New York)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: doris
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » New York (See other walking tours in New York)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 6
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Author: doris
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Grand Central Terminal
- Empire State Building
- Macy's in Herald Square
- Madison Square Garden
- Flatiron Building
- Union Square
1) Grand Central Terminal (must see)
The terms Grand Central Terminal and Grand Central Station are used interchangeably, but the station is also the central post office joined at the hip to the rail terminal. The business magnate Cornelius Vanderbilt bought the Hudson River and New York Central railroads in 1867. He merged them and started work on Grand Central Depot in 1869.
Architect John B. Snook designed the Grand Central Depot in the Second Empire style. The depot, with all its improvements, was completed by 1874. Trains approaching from the north would descend into the Park Avenue Tunnel at 96th street and travel underground to the terminal. This was a much safer deal than rattling down the crowded streets.
In 1902, a southbound steam locomotive ran past signals in the smoke-filled Park Avenue Tunnel and crashed into another train. After this accident, the depot was torn down and replaced by the current Grand Central Terminal. The architectural firm of Reed and Stern was responsible for the overall design of the station, while Warren and Wetmore worked on the Beaux-Arts exterior.
Grand Central Terminal features permanent works of art, including the celestial ceiling in the Main Concourse, the Glory of Commerce work, the statue of Cornelius Vanderbilt in front of the building's south facade, and the two cast-iron eagle statues adorning the terminal's facades.
Exhibitions and events are held regularly in Vanderbilt Hall. The Dining Concourse has exhibits of lightboxes. The terminal is also known for its performance and installation art, including flash mobs and other spontaneous events.
Architect John B. Snook designed the Grand Central Depot in the Second Empire style. The depot, with all its improvements, was completed by 1874. Trains approaching from the north would descend into the Park Avenue Tunnel at 96th street and travel underground to the terminal. This was a much safer deal than rattling down the crowded streets.
In 1902, a southbound steam locomotive ran past signals in the smoke-filled Park Avenue Tunnel and crashed into another train. After this accident, the depot was torn down and replaced by the current Grand Central Terminal. The architectural firm of Reed and Stern was responsible for the overall design of the station, while Warren and Wetmore worked on the Beaux-Arts exterior.
Grand Central Terminal features permanent works of art, including the celestial ceiling in the Main Concourse, the Glory of Commerce work, the statue of Cornelius Vanderbilt in front of the building's south facade, and the two cast-iron eagle statues adorning the terminal's facades.
Exhibitions and events are held regularly in Vanderbilt Hall. The Dining Concourse has exhibits of lightboxes. The terminal is also known for its performance and installation art, including flash mobs and other spontaneous events.
2) Empire State Building (must see)
The king of Art Deco skyscrapers, the 102-story Empire State Building soars to 1,454 feet above the sidewalks of Manhattan. Once the tallest building in the world, it is now the seventh-tallest in New York, ninth in the USA, and 54th in the world. It is still the sixth-tallest freestanding edifice in the Americas.
The name "Empire State" is the nickname of the State of New York. The design of the building was created by the architectural firm Shrive, Lamb & Harmon. Construction started in 1930 and finished in 1931. The skyscraper stands on the site of the old Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, built in 1893. The builders of the Empire State determined it should be the highest in the world.
The Empire State sits in Midtown South on the west side of Fifth Avenue between 34th and 35th Streets. The 80th, 86th, and 102nd floors have observatories with a commanding 360-degree view of just about everything. The Empire State Building is a cultural icon. It has been featured in more than 250 television series and films since the film King Kong was broadcast in 1933.
The facade is made of Indiana limestone and granite. The decorations on the exterior are mainly geometric, without narrative. The metal doors of the main entrance are flanked by molded piers topped with streamlined eagles and a transom with the golden letters of its name.
The Empire State Building was designated a city landmark by the New York City landmarks Preservation Commission in 1980 and was added to the list of National Historic Landmarks in 1986.
The name "Empire State" is the nickname of the State of New York. The design of the building was created by the architectural firm Shrive, Lamb & Harmon. Construction started in 1930 and finished in 1931. The skyscraper stands on the site of the old Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, built in 1893. The builders of the Empire State determined it should be the highest in the world.
The Empire State sits in Midtown South on the west side of Fifth Avenue between 34th and 35th Streets. The 80th, 86th, and 102nd floors have observatories with a commanding 360-degree view of just about everything. The Empire State Building is a cultural icon. It has been featured in more than 250 television series and films since the film King Kong was broadcast in 1933.
The facade is made of Indiana limestone and granite. The decorations on the exterior are mainly geometric, without narrative. The metal doors of the main entrance are flanked by molded piers topped with streamlined eagles and a transom with the golden letters of its name.
The Empire State Building was designated a city landmark by the New York City landmarks Preservation Commission in 1980 and was added to the list of National Historic Landmarks in 1986.
3) Macy's in Herald Square
Since its opening in 1902, the legendary Macy's flagship store in Herald Square has been a shopping paradise for visitors and an architectural icon and landmark of New York City. A store like no other, it has continued to be a trendsetter from its inception and was the first building to have a modern-day escalator. With 1,250,000 square feet of retail space under one roof, Macy's is one of the largest department stores in the United States. It was added to the list of National Historic Landmarks in 1978.
The store covers an entire city block with 11 levels of the latest fashions, featuring a dazzling array of designer brands, choices, and quality which never fail to amaze. Restaurants and cafes can be found throughout the store, and exciting events are held here almost every day.
The place is also famous for its elaborate animated holiday and Christmas window displays. Each year presents a different theme shown in six windows on the Broadway side of the building.
Macy's is known for its great sales, especially compared to other major New York City department stores. If you crave some refreshment or feel like having a bite, there are plenty of dining options to consider, from casual, fast-food eateries to the more refined sit-down restaurants, so there's no reason for you to go hungry or thirsty while shopping at Macy's.
The store covers an entire city block with 11 levels of the latest fashions, featuring a dazzling array of designer brands, choices, and quality which never fail to amaze. Restaurants and cafes can be found throughout the store, and exciting events are held here almost every day.
The place is also famous for its elaborate animated holiday and Christmas window displays. Each year presents a different theme shown in six windows on the Broadway side of the building.
Macy's is known for its great sales, especially compared to other major New York City department stores. If you crave some refreshment or feel like having a bite, there are plenty of dining options to consider, from casual, fast-food eateries to the more refined sit-down restaurants, so there's no reason for you to go hungry or thirsty while shopping at Macy's.
4) Madison Square Garden
Formerly resembling the Doge's Palace in Venice around 1900, the Altoid, which has since been relocated, stood proudly between Seventh and Eighth Avenues atop Penn Station. It holds a legendary status in the realm of sports, primarily due to its association with the thrilling sport of boxing. Today, as "The World's Most Famous Arena," it serves as the home for various renowned teams and hosts a myriad of events, both uplifting and controversial.
Within its hallowed walls, you can catch the electrifying NBA action of the Knicks, with notable figures like Spike Lee and supermodels gracing the courtside. The NHL's Rangers also call this iconic venue their home, and St. John's University's Red Storm showcases their talents here as well. In addition to sporting events, Madison Square Garden plays host to concerts, tennis tournaments, dog shows, political conventions, and even caters to enthusiasts of monster truck rallies and "professional" wrestling for those seeking a different kind of entertainment. For a more intimate experience, The Theater at Madison Square Garden presents shows that cater to diverse tastes.
A monumental $1 billion renovation, completed in 2013, transformed Madison Square Garden, upgrading nearly every aspect of the facility. Notably, two bridges were added, running parallel to the arena floor, offering a unique and elevated perspective for those seated high above.
Why You Should Visit:
Great arena with great amenities; a magnet for sports fans and live show aficionados alike. It boasts an amazing bowl-like arena that provides great viewing and good acoustics for whatever event you choose to attend.
Tip:
For a comprehensive list of upcoming events, it is advisable to explore Madison Square Garden's official website, where you can find a full calendar of captivating experiences awaiting your attendance.
While the facility tour is undoubtedly fascinating, it is important to check for any scheduled events on the day you plan to take it. The tour may not be available during days when events are scheduled.
Within its hallowed walls, you can catch the electrifying NBA action of the Knicks, with notable figures like Spike Lee and supermodels gracing the courtside. The NHL's Rangers also call this iconic venue their home, and St. John's University's Red Storm showcases their talents here as well. In addition to sporting events, Madison Square Garden plays host to concerts, tennis tournaments, dog shows, political conventions, and even caters to enthusiasts of monster truck rallies and "professional" wrestling for those seeking a different kind of entertainment. For a more intimate experience, The Theater at Madison Square Garden presents shows that cater to diverse tastes.
A monumental $1 billion renovation, completed in 2013, transformed Madison Square Garden, upgrading nearly every aspect of the facility. Notably, two bridges were added, running parallel to the arena floor, offering a unique and elevated perspective for those seated high above.
Why You Should Visit:
Great arena with great amenities; a magnet for sports fans and live show aficionados alike. It boasts an amazing bowl-like arena that provides great viewing and good acoustics for whatever event you choose to attend.
Tip:
For a comprehensive list of upcoming events, it is advisable to explore Madison Square Garden's official website, where you can find a full calendar of captivating experiences awaiting your attendance.
While the facility tour is undoubtedly fascinating, it is important to check for any scheduled events on the day you plan to take it. The tour may not be available during days when events are scheduled.
5) Flatiron Building
Perhaps the most photographed edifice in New York City, the Flatiron Building owes its popularity and name to the unique design. The isosceles triangle-shaped building may not be as high as the nearby high risers of today, but when it opened its doors for the first time in 1901, it surely was one of the tallest in New York – 307 feet, 21 floors – rising like a Greek column, contrary to the other New York skyscrapers rising from a lower base block.
The Flatiron building was designed by Chicago architect, Daniel Burnham, as an office building for the Fuller Construction Company. Styled renaissance palazzo with beaux art detailing, it has the exterior of steel clad with terra cotta. Upon inauguration, the building was dubbed Burnham’s Folly by skeptics who doubted it would stand against strong winds. The design, however, has defied their misgivings and remained structurally sound till the present. Nowadays, it houses the headquarters of the McMillan Publishing Company.
The Flatiron building symbolizes New York City in picture postcards, television commercials and documentaries. It became a New York City landmark in 1966 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
Why You Should Visit:
The exterior of the structure is certainly unique and well worth a photo!
Tip:
At the crossroads between 5th Avenue and Broadway, this should be not the only attraction in the area. The district is trendy, and you can sit outside at one of the many local cafes or in Madison Square Park and just watch people go about their lives all day long. Alternatively, if you're more creatively inclined, the area has plenty of stores catering to those loving artistic design, as well as hip cafes and restaurants.
The Flatiron building was designed by Chicago architect, Daniel Burnham, as an office building for the Fuller Construction Company. Styled renaissance palazzo with beaux art detailing, it has the exterior of steel clad with terra cotta. Upon inauguration, the building was dubbed Burnham’s Folly by skeptics who doubted it would stand against strong winds. The design, however, has defied their misgivings and remained structurally sound till the present. Nowadays, it houses the headquarters of the McMillan Publishing Company.
The Flatiron building symbolizes New York City in picture postcards, television commercials and documentaries. It became a New York City landmark in 1966 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.
Why You Should Visit:
The exterior of the structure is certainly unique and well worth a photo!
Tip:
At the crossroads between 5th Avenue and Broadway, this should be not the only attraction in the area. The district is trendy, and you can sit outside at one of the many local cafes or in Madison Square Park and just watch people go about their lives all day long. Alternatively, if you're more creatively inclined, the area has plenty of stores catering to those loving artistic design, as well as hip cafes and restaurants.
6) Union Square
Union Square derives its name from its historical significance as the intersection of two major roads in New York City—Bloomingdale Road (now Broadway) and the Eastern Post Road (now extinct). Throughout its rich history, the square has served as a gathering place for various social, political, and cultural events. Initially, it functioned as an entrance to the city and a residential neighborhood. However, following the Civil War, it transformed into a bustling commercial hub.
The square witnessed notable rallies and demonstrations that shaped American history. One such event was the patriotic rally held after the fall of Fort Sumter during the Civil War, where a quarter of a million people gathered to support Union troops. Additionally, it was the site of the historic Labor Day March, one of the earliest workers' demonstrations in the world, which served as an inspiration for labor movements worldwide. In more recent times, the square became a central gathering point for mourners in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Today, Union Square remains vibrant and bustling, particularly during the summer months. Visitors can find people relaxing on the steps, enjoying lunch, and observing captivating street performances. Adorned with remarkable statues paying homage to prominent figures such as Gandhi, Washington, and Lincoln, the space hosts a remarkable year-round farmers market, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, which showcases the talents of local chefs and offering an abundance of fresh produce.
Exploring Union Square offers a sweet experience of leisurely strolls, shopping, and indulging in delectable meals. To make the most of your visit, plan your itinerary around a satisfying meal or multiple dining experiences. It's worth noting that weekends tend to be crowded, so for a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during weekdays when the crowds are smaller.
Why You Should Visit:
Many interesting things worth checking out here, including: the central fountain, subway kiosks, the equestrian statue of George Washington, the Abraham Lincoln statue, a sculpture of Marquis de Lafayette and another of Gandhi, plus a year-round greenmarket where you can sample goods from local farmers. It also has several playgrounds, a lively holiday market, and benches you can sit on and watch a slice of New York go by. Cafes and restaurants also abound, so no need to worry about food.
Tip:
Stop by the Union Square station to read messages on the sticky notes left by passers-by, and feel free to leave one of your own!
The square witnessed notable rallies and demonstrations that shaped American history. One such event was the patriotic rally held after the fall of Fort Sumter during the Civil War, where a quarter of a million people gathered to support Union troops. Additionally, it was the site of the historic Labor Day March, one of the earliest workers' demonstrations in the world, which served as an inspiration for labor movements worldwide. In more recent times, the square became a central gathering point for mourners in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Today, Union Square remains vibrant and bustling, particularly during the summer months. Visitors can find people relaxing on the steps, enjoying lunch, and observing captivating street performances. Adorned with remarkable statues paying homage to prominent figures such as Gandhi, Washington, and Lincoln, the space hosts a remarkable year-round farmers market, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, which showcases the talents of local chefs and offering an abundance of fresh produce.
Exploring Union Square offers a sweet experience of leisurely strolls, shopping, and indulging in delectable meals. To make the most of your visit, plan your itinerary around a satisfying meal or multiple dining experiences. It's worth noting that weekends tend to be crowded, so for a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during weekdays when the crowds are smaller.
Why You Should Visit:
Many interesting things worth checking out here, including: the central fountain, subway kiosks, the equestrian statue of George Washington, the Abraham Lincoln statue, a sculpture of Marquis de Lafayette and another of Gandhi, plus a year-round greenmarket where you can sample goods from local farmers. It also has several playgrounds, a lively holiday market, and benches you can sit on and watch a slice of New York go by. Cafes and restaurants also abound, so no need to worry about food.
Tip:
Stop by the Union Square station to read messages on the sticky notes left by passers-by, and feel free to leave one of your own!
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